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John Stewart Obituary
Stewart, who came to prominence in the 1960s as a member of folk music's Kingston Trio, died Saturday at a San Diego, California, hospital after suffering a brain aneurism. He was 68.
"He was a lovely man and a very gentle soul and I guess the only thing you can say today is that the world is less one great songwriter," the Monkees' Micky Dolenz told The Associated Press on Sunday.
Stewart, who left the Kingston Trio shortly before the Monkees released "Daydream Believer" in 1967, went on to record nearly four dozen solo albums, including the critically acclaimed "California Bloodlines" and "Bombs Away Dream Babies." The latter included the hit single "Gold," in which he dueted with Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks.
But, as with "Daydream Believer," he was likely best known for writing songs for others, including Joan Baez, Nanci Griffith, Roseanne Cash and Anne Murray.
"He was a cult hero, he never made it super huge," said his manager, Dean Swett. "He was one of those outlaw rebels, one of the people who refused to conform to what the record labels expected him to be."
A husky-voiced singer and accomplished guitarist who delivered his lyrics in a poignant, often longing voice, Stewart's music was hard to classify. It fell somewhere between rock, country and folk and eventually came to be called Americana.
He wrote "Runaway Train," a country hit for Roseanne Cash, and "Strange Rivers," which Joan Baez included on her 1992 "Play Me Backwards" album. Nanci Griffith dueted with him on "Sweet Dreams" and Murray, like the Monkees before her, had a hit with "Daydream Believer."
"There are certain songs that you just go in humming. It was one of those," Dolenz said of Stewart's best-known recording. Although he sang background to Davy Jones' lead on the Monkees' version, Dolenz performs the song himself at his solo shows.
"To this day it is one of the biggest songs that I do in concert," he said.
Stewart joined the Kingston Trio in 1961, replacing Dave Guard in the group that had helped usher in an American folk music revival in the late 1950s.
"John truly was the right fit. A first rate entertainer and gifted songwriter," the group said in a statement on its Web site.
He recorded more than a dozen albums with the trio before going on to a solo career in 1967. A year later he released "California Bloodlines," which included the minor hit "July You're a Woman." "Bombs Away Dream Babies" came out in 1979.
He would eventually record more than 40 solo albums. Others included "The Lonesome Picker Rides Again, "Airdream Believer" and "Rough Sketches," the latter a collection of songs about the iconic American highway "Route 66." He was said to be at work on still another album at the time of his death.
Stewart's wife, Buffy, and children were at his side when he died, according to a statement posted on the Kingston Trio's Web site. There was no immediate word on funeral arrangements.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
119 Entries
Harry Simpson
January 19, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
phil
May 10, 2014
John Stewart was one of the greatest performers and composers I have ever heard. He had a terrific solo career and I liked most of what he did after leaving the Kingston Trio. But I would like to mention his presence with the Kingston Trio. John wrote some absolutely drop dead great songs while with the KT. One of the greatest was Run the Ridges. Play it sometime, as well as all the songs on #16--my opinion the best KT album. RtR just sparkles with rhythm and fantastic harmony, and it is a great tribute to how the Trio sang what moved them, independent and brilliant, eschewing the main stream. Thanks to you John. I listen to all your songs today.
Scott Gatzke
May 21, 2013
From the Baughman Avenue home in Claremont, to the Four Muses in San Clemente, to the Laguna Beach shows, to our hearts and memories. Peace to you my friend.
Richard Owen
February 28, 2013
Thank You For Your Time, With The Kingston Trio, As Well As For All Your Great Solo Work. Rest In Peace, Kind Sir. See You On The Other Side.
How you can show support
October 25, 2011
I would like to know if your mother was Joann Stewart from Atlanta Georgia, and if your grandmother was Evelyn Lowe. I am looking for either one. I know they are elderly
Patricia A Jublikhan PC
August 22, 2009
David and I will always treasure our memories of sharing time together at the Diner.
XOXO,
Patty
Michael-David Dyer
May 28, 2009
Thank you, Buffy, for being so much a part of John's life. Listening to his music for so many years...it's obvious that you and your kids were a blessing & inspiration to both to the man and his music. Thank you. God bless you & your family.
will ayers
January 6, 2009
I WAS A FAN SINCE THE TRIO DAYS AND ALWAYS LOVED HIS SONGS AND WHAT HE HAD TO SAY. BEST TO HIS FAMILY AND MAY YOU REALIZE WHAT JOHN GAVE THE WORLD. HE IS MISSED.
Joan Van Cour
August 9, 2008
I so wish I had stumbled onto this site earlier. It's hard to believe that John has been gone this long.
I was a Kingston Trio fan. When I was 12 years old I ate, slept, and breathed their music. I got a guitar. I wrote music. I sang.
Then, I became a John Stewart fan. There was something about his music that was earthy and real, yet eternally optimistic.
I can recall each phase of my life by what song of his I was singing at the time.
In 1992 I was fortunate to see a catalog for the Omega Insitute. And, when I saw that John was leading a song-writing waorkshop, I signed up. It was one of the most memorable and formative weeks of my life.
He didn't teach us how to write. He helped us allow the creation to flow through us. And he was always there with encouragement and praise. A hand on the shoulder and a bear hug. And every one of us blossomed.
I celebrated my 40th birthday by singing on stage with the rest of the members of that workshop. What a joyous memory!
I only wish the world could be what that week was. Everyone pulling for eachother; taking joy in eachother's work. And laughing like fools!
I have written many songs since then. No, I never made it to "the Big Time". But I've been able to express what came from the center of my Being. As John told us, "No one else can say what you have to say."
Dear God, how I will miss his being in this world!
My deepest sympathies to his family.
Mark Novak
March 21, 2008
My sincere condolences to the entire Stewart family.
I really don’t have anything new to add that hasn’t already been said in the many beautiful notes below. Since I was a teenager John's music has always been a big part of my life, and I will continue to always reach first for one of his CDs on a long drive.
Over the years I did save several Phoenix newspaper reviews and Celebrity Theater placards for his concerts. If you are interested in having this memorabilia, please contact me - [email protected]
Will Teague
February 13, 2008
The world is a better place thanks to John Stewart. It was my pleasure to have dinner with him and Bob after we closed on the last night of our (The New Christy Minstrels) gig with Charlie Byrd at the Carter Barron in June of 1965 in DC. The KT came by on our last night to hear the sound system and see the lighting we were using so they could gauge their own "look and sound" the next night when they were to open with Roger Miller. I wish Nick had felt like joining Mike Whalen and Bob and John and me for dinner, but he said he had to go back to his hotel room and count his money. Funny guy. So was Bob, and especially John. I'll always remember John's quiet demeanor and terrific dry sense of humor, and it was a night never to forget for me.
JS and Buffy Ford
February 12, 2008
Cathy Vontsolos
February 12, 2008
As a student at the U of A in Tucson in the early seventies, a friend introduced some of us to John Stewart's music--it was the Phoenix Concerts album. I became an instant fan!I then was one of the lucky ones who was privileged enough to attend a Phoenix concert at the Celebrity Theatre in 1975. Wow! I will never forget the incredible power of him on stage--a truly beautiful man. I recently "re-discovered" his music by buying the CD of the same album--it still speaks to my soul like no music has ever done. It doesn't sound dated at all---it is indeed timeless.
Thanks to Youtube, there are fantastic clips of him in his Kingston Trio days (especially the last TV performance by the KT on the Andy Williams show, where John demonstrates his sense of humor, as well as that incredible voice)and two long clips from a PBS production (KT reunion in the late eighties hosted by Tommy Smothers).He was such a sensitive soul. Part of me has died with him.
Ari Rezlaw
February 11, 2008
I was switching stations last night and somehow found the Grammy's... It was the exact moment that John's picture came up on the screen. After watching too many award shows, I soon realized that this was a sad list of musicians that had died during the past year, and sadder for me because John was on this list.
Very few public deaths, (especially entertainers) have touched me like this... but he was more than just an entertainer.
Like dylan, he created a world that made sense to a certain type of listener. It enlightened you, even with all the pain in this life, he left you with the message to some how find your way to enjoy the ride.
I have so many moments that stand out in my mind when thinking of John's music. First that great photo of him on California Bloodlines... Neal Cassidy himself would approve. It said it all!
I feel that John was able to create scenes, and capture lost places and times in his songs, much like Robbie Robertson could do. Everyone has a different picture in their mind of "Henry," and "July"... and "pull over to the side of the road to show you what I mean." Also hearing Bobby's voice at the end of the "Last Campaigne" can still can bring me back to that time... wishing that I too was on that train... singing and believing with all our hearts...
It was that passion he had, that came through in his music. Not to mention, his sense of humor as well.
One last thing. A few years ago ago my wife bought me a book listing the great loves of the last century. Gena Rowlands and John Cassavetes, Simone De Beauvoir and Sartre, Scott and Zelda and Bogie and BaCall were all included. Well, I think that John and Buffy belonged there as well. The spirit of their love came through in his songs.
Know that John's music lives on, and that's a great way to exit...with applause and plenty of it!
Ari Rezlaw
Woodstock NY
Sherry Hynes
February 8, 2008
My heart goes out to his loved ones and to all the friends he made through his wonderful music. He first touched my life in my mid-teens with California Bloodlines and I rarely missed a show at the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix during the 1970's. His music had so many levels of meaning and he performed with such passion. I'm sure he's singing with the angels now.
Sharon Kaylor
February 7, 2008
I was fortunate enough to live in Phoenix during those magical years - and never missed a John Stewart perfomance. The Phoenix Concerts were just a very special moment in time. John's music has always touched my heart in a way that only his music can. I was so lucky, once again, to be living in the Sacramento area & get to see him at the wonderful Palms in Davis many times. I feel sorry for all the people who say "John WHO???" - I am blessed to have had his presence in my life. My thoughts & prayers are with his loving family & dear friends.
John's daughter -Amy Stewart
February 5, 2008
Thank you, everyone, for your most loving thoughts and messages about our father. I have read each and every one. During this time of great sadness we are comforted by your memories.
Ruth Stadnik
February 3, 2008
John Stewart and his music have been an important part of my life for 36 years now--I even named my sailboat "Chillywinds." I used to take felt pens and a sketchpad to his concerts and draw my impressions with my left hand. Isn't it amazing that through the wonders of electronics he will be able to continue to sing to us for many years--forever?
Bill Hayes
February 2, 2008
First came out to Colorado listening to "Chilly Winds" and moved out here singing along to "Hung on the Heart." John's music has been with me, good times and bad, and God willing, will be for many more years to come. I'll miss you, Big Guy.
Peter Pearson
February 2, 2008
John Stewart and his music have been part of my life for over 30 years.We have lost a musical genius and all round special person.
Codolences to Buffy and all John's family.
Paul Jenkins
February 1, 2008
John inspired me to learn guitar and banjo, to sing, to love harmony, to write songs, and, most importantly, never give up. I am so fortunate to have met such a fine man!
Gale Wood
February 1, 2008
Many years ago (20+!) I found an album in the cheap bin of a local record store.
It was by someone that I was vaguely familiar with. It happened to be an album by John.
There is a song on that album, Cody, that really resonated back then and still does today, (at least for me, though I can’t tell you why.)
John was a true word-smith. Many condolences.
Gale Wood
Nottingham NH
Ray Chin
January 29, 2008
I was lying in bed in my UCLA dorm room listening to an alternative FM station, when "July, You're A Woman" came on. John who? John Stewart? That was the beginning of my lifelong admiration for John and his music. "...and I have not been known as the saint of San Joaquin...and I'd just as soon right now, pull on over to the side of the road and show you what I mean..." That line never ceases to bring a smile to my face.
John Rahiya
January 29, 2008
Heartfelt sympathy to John's family. His legacy has just started and it will be telling to watch and hear how his music is sung in future years. John has left so much I am not sure we realize the treasure. The times to come will tell us. We will be listening to what we have and to how John's life work endures.
Thanks John.
Robbie Wright
January 28, 2008
As others have also said, John Stewart was a big part of my life. I grew up listening to his wonderful music and have been a BIG fan of his since I was like 14 or so. John was my hero. I just never really realized that until he was gone. I always wanted to meet John and tried numerous times to help set-up a gig out here in Georgia for him. Over the years, I got the opportunities to share email correspondence with John. Later on I became a journalist and started writing for an area music magazine. One of my “secret agendas” for writing for the magazine was to help promote John in our area. However – being that the magazine was about the local music – I had to establish myself first. Well, finally after two years I contacted John for a telephone interview in November of last year. He agreed. I was unbelievable excited – I can’t even explain how I felt. However, he forgot to call, and I chose to wait until the holidays had passed to do the interview – just so there would be no distractions and whatnot. I contacted him again and we were arranging a time to do the interview when he died. I was crushed. My biggest wish – to actually talk to, and interview, John Stewart was not to be. John’s death has greatly affected me, as it has so many. Even though I didn’t know him extremely well, I felt as though he was a close friend. And now looking back I just wish I had not waited so long to contact him. Now I cannot even bring myself to listen to his songs. It hurts too much. I tried to listen to his songs when going to sleep the other night as I had done so many times, but I just couldn’t. John wrote a song called, “If You Should Remember Me.” Well he certainly will be remembered.
Ken Biermann
January 28, 2008
John, your music was and always will be a big part of my life. The dream lives on. Thanks you.
Sean Anglum
January 28, 2008
"Day by day, one by one, we fall like candles in the sun..."
I can hardly remember a time when John Stewart and his music (w/ and w/o the Trio) was not in my musical world. The true voice of a generation of Americans that wanted to move this country forward without forgetting where we had been. Now John's gone and we've yet to learn that lesson.....but our lives have been made so much richer with his music. I was one of the lucky ones who got to see and hear him many times over the years. He never disappointed.
I say thank you, John Stewart. You will not be forgotten.
"Fare Thee Well to Him..."
Pam Pickering
January 27, 2008
John was a big part of my life - I loved his music and I loved seeing him at the Palms in Davis and Winters. He will always hold a special place in my heart.
Terry Ransom
January 27, 2008
John, you have been the music of my life. But, most of all you honored me with your friendship. I will miss you until we meet again. Buffy, know that you are lifted up in prayers and surrounded by love as you grieve the loss of your soulmate. Peace.
Robert Anthony
January 27, 2008
To Buffy, the children and grandchildren--May color and comfort surround you and the healing hand of God. John's words, music and person touch me and always will. Truly a great man.
Ray Green
January 27, 2008
John, thank you for 40 years of inspiration and hope, and thank you for Fantasy Camp. You are now standing tall and whole in the sun, without pain. I hope to see you that day somewhere in the future when I take my first steps on the moon.
Dan Griffin
January 27, 2008
Thank you John for sharing your music over the years. You will truly be missed..you are a wingless Angel in my book.. My thoughts and prayers go out to Buffy and family.. Dan Griffin
John Such
January 27, 2008
Dear Buffy and Family,
I am very sorry for your loss. John's legacy will always be a memory. Treasure those memories because in the end that's all we have to enjoy. I know because my wife passed away in July.
My Deepest Sympathy
John Storey
January 27, 2008
John,
We will miss you teribly but your songs will be long remembered. Of course we still have our "Bloodlines" group to chat about you.
Sheila Morgan
January 27, 2008
Dear John, I will miss you forever. But I am one of the lucky ones who found you and your music and magic, enriching my life one hundred fold. In reading words here I am struck by the legions of people you have touched to the core of their souls and feel the same. I can count on one hand the artists who have achieved so much heartfelt devotion. But it's so because you gave all your heart and soul to the music and to us.
To Buffy, you are in our thoughts and prayers and remember always that you are loved just as much as well, for you were his special girl he devoted his life and music to and were his love and inspiration. Blessings and deepest sympathy to you and your family.
At Fantasy Camp III, Scottsdale, 2002
Alan Trimble
January 27, 2008
Thanks for everything, John.
Steve Swain
January 26, 2008
His June 1977 concert at the Palamino in L.A. was our first of a life-long date. He was my first published freelance interview (two publications). Still married and still writing after 30 years. Thanks John.
Larry Brown
January 26, 2008
Buffy and Kids,
The angel is now real, joy is in the heavens..The rivers are not quite so strange and If you should remember me is a moot point...I respect your sense of pain and personal loss, but implore you to just look up.....The joy he spread to all of us is everywhere.....
His dinner plate may go unused but he is still with us , in every heart, and every soul, of everyone who ever knew him....
You are not alone at this time.....We all share your feeling of loss as well as your hopeful joy....that heaven is a much better place now........
May the lonesome picker live forever.......
Kent (MissouriBird) Martin
January 26, 2008
How can you sum up in words what one person's incredible gift of song has meant to the soundtrack of your life? I discovered John when I listened to my brothers' KT records and became hooked on that ... voice! Such an earnest and powerful tone, it pulled me right in to whatever song he was singing. And every song he sang, he absolutely owned! Then, almost immediately, there are the words. Words that capture the hopes and dreams, frustrations and anxieties of the America he loved and cherished.
I only saw him and visited with him once ... backstage at a long-gone coffeehouse in Kansas City ... but it was an experience I'll never forget. He was every bit as real as his songs. And he listened to you! He made you feel important, even necessary, in this crazy life. That's worth its weight in, well, gold.
John may be gone but his music will be with us ... and our children's children's children ... for all time. This takes away some of the pain of his passing. Far from all of it, but enough.
To Buffy and the children, please know you'll be forever in our hearts and prayers. You are his treasures, and ours, too.
From a forever grateful fan, a "dreamer on the rise" ...
John August Lee
January 26, 2008
Until That Time John .... Until That time
Michael Worczak
January 26, 2008
A true giant. My sincere condolences. His contributions were tremendous, not just to music.
Dennis Carpenter
January 26, 2008
Dear Buffy and Family,
I'm truly sorry for your loss.
I only saw John once at Anderson Estate in Phoenix, Az. 1987.
I got hooked on John's music when I saw him on the Smother's Brothers Show singing Survivors.
I've been hooked ever since! I've loved his Singing and Guitar playing which has helped me when I've been down and out and the troubles of life have come my way. But on the other hand when life has been good to me I've listen to John's music to celebrate.
I will truly miss the new music that he was yet to write but I have all his albums and will continue to enjoy them as tho' they were new music from John.
Again I'm sorry for your loss.
Stay Strong Buffy for your family and may God continue to shine His Light on You and the Children.
Roger (Bluesman) Barnes
January 26, 2008
"Now he belongs to the ages"
Phil Goodwin
January 26, 2008
Buffy and family,
I just wanted to pass along my sincerest sympathy to you and let you know my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I've been following John's music since the 70's and have been blessed to be able to see his East Coast concerts for the last 10 years. I still can't believe he is gone but his music and message will last an eternity. I still have trouble listening to John singing right now, but my way of crying is to be able to continue to learn and play his music on my guitar. You have enriched our lives and I know you're shining on the heavens....God Bless you JS.
Steve Silver
January 26, 2008
He was the music for our lives and knew the pulse of the bloodline that ran deep in our country.
Marcy Doehlman
January 26, 2008
To the John Stewart family and fans, My husband introduced me to John's music in the 90's. He had always been a fan and I immediately loved him and his music. We went to see him several times in concert and have all of his albums. We are one of the people he honored by name on his "The Day the River Sang" CD. We were glad to help in anyway to futher his recordings. We will miss him. Since Jan 19th we have played his music over and over. Here's to you John, hope you meet Elvis. Wayne and Marcy Doehlman
Jill Bulgin
January 26, 2008
I have literally been listening to John's music my entire life. It has always been a great source of comfort and inspiration. He will be greatly missed yet I hope he is at peace. My sincere condolences to Buffy and his children.
Bob Smith
January 26, 2008
John has been an important part of my life for over 45 years. I will miss him, but the music and memories will always be with me. My most sincere condolences to Buffy and the family.
Tom Piini
January 26, 2008
From the early days of the Phoenix Concert Album, to sleeping in my car at the LAX airport after one of many Palomino Club concerts, John has been touching my life and soul for almost forty years now. Nobody else could reach into your chest, grab your heart, and gently put it back like he could. They only come around once like him. Thanks for making sure I now know what really is important in life John.
Robert Sullivan
January 26, 2008
I became a fan in 1963. I play his music every day. I will never forget him.
Don Elder
January 26, 2008
After Fantasy Camp 6, I thought it could never get any better - being on stage with my musical hero! Glad I let history repeat itself last summer at FC8 - a lifetime worth of memories. Thanks, Lonesome Picker, for sharing your music and life with us.
Jane Titus
January 26, 2008
I have followed John and his music for about 45 years and his passing has left an emptiness. But there is so much music that he has left to fill us up again with its insight into the souls of us all.
Ed Harding
January 26, 2008
Like so many others, John's death has left a big hole in my heart but his music will be with us always. Goodbye,Johnny Dreams
Rod Geddes
January 26, 2008
I first heard John sing 47 years ago and he has been such an important part of my life since then, and always will be.
The music lives on and the memories will never go.
God bless, John.
Larry Brickner-Wood
January 25, 2008
John's music has been a big part of my life. My older brother, Bill, introduced me to John in the early 1970's, and gave me my first albums of his. I was stunned by the power and beauty of songs like "Armstrong", "Cannons in the Rain," and "All the Brave Horses" and so many others. He gave voice to our grief over the loss of Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King. Some years later, when I heard "Botswanna" I was equally as inspired and moved by that fine song. He was too young to go, and I will miss him. Thank you for the music, John. Your family and friends are in my prayers.
Donna Singleton
January 25, 2008
John's music and performances have delighted and sustained me for more than 30 years. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. He will surely live in all our hearts.
Rev. Craig Jones
January 25, 2008
John remembered everyone he ever met and always had a kind word for those of us lucky enough to greet him again. He knew me as The Rev and would probably have laughed himself silly had he known the deep and lasting influence he and his music have had on my life, but John's songs were theological more often than not, and I'm sure that was the intent. Dance with the angels John as our hearts beat waiting for the chance. See you in the field.
The Rev
Nikki Sherwin
January 25, 2008
I kept thinking to myself, "I'm never going to see him again." But then again, I will...it'll just be a little longer than planned. :)
Love you.
Harold Raser
January 25, 2008
I listened to the "Stewart" Kingston Trio on record, and saw them in live concert several times. They were the best of that era! When John went on to a solo career, I bought everything he put out, and listened to it constantly. I also had the privilege to hear him twice live. My two children (both now young adults) literally grew up on John's music, are great fans, and share my shock and sorrow at his untimely passing. His wonderful gift was a great gift to us all!
Warren Serkin
January 25, 2008
John Stewart was a part of my life for over 45 years as part of the Kingston Trio and as a solo artist. I had the privilege of seeing him perform live numerous times. As other have said, there is a big hole in my heart but he has left us a legacy of beautiful music that will last forever.
Barry Brink
January 25, 2008
John Stewart has been a part of my life tapestry fro over forty years. I grew up in Mill Valley, CA while John also lived in the area...His music captured the essence of my youth, and his later songs were more in touch with Americana than anyone else I ever listened to. I feel like a part of myself died with John...the loss of innocence all over again.
I can't drive the levee roads of the Delta without having "July, You're A Woman," come to my mind's ear. But for me, it is my future (then) wife that rides with me.
John helped me find my reasons to rise...and since I continue to rise, his legacy lives on.
Ridge Runner
Dona Sundeen
January 25, 2008
To John's family, my condolences. Thanks for sharing him with us. His albums were our "house band" for much of the early to mid 70s and his music is the stuff I play most of, now in my 60s. Four days after I heard the news, I still wake up thinking: "John Stewart is dead. Say it's not so." May he rest in peace, and may peace come to your family.
Alden ( AL) Cook
January 25, 2008
I cannot adeqautely express my grief at
the loss of this incredible singer songwriter and man . He quite literally
provided the musical soundtrack of my
life . He went so far as to perform a
concert in celebration of my retirement
at St Marks church here in Augusta , Maine . Rest in Peace my friend .
We who knew you knew what dues you
paid . You have jettisoned this
world for a far , far better one.
Mitch Barnett
January 25, 2008
When I was 15, my older brother and a few of his friends who were on the cutting edge of cool at the time, took me to a John Stewart concert. He was on tour to promote the Phoenix Concert live LP. We saw him at Sabastian's West Playhouse in San Clemente, Ca. For those of us who connected with John and his music I would like to say THANKS JOHN, for sharing with us.
Morgen Hardigree
January 25, 2008
My parents saw John play and had an album cover signed to me over 35 years ago. That album and your music will always be cherished. My sincerest condolences for your loss.
Tracy "Lee" Bohme
January 23, 2008
Mike, Jeremy and Amy:
Sorry to hear of your loss. I would love to hear from you.
Thoughts and Prayers.
[email protected]
Jim Manos
January 23, 2008
It is difficult to put into words just what John meant to me and my whole family. I am sure I have been to at least 25 concerts of his over the years. We walked out of the church on our wedding day to "Some Kind of Love." Although we never met, I felt he was a member of our family. As much as we mourn his death, I can only imagine the depths of your grief. I hope it is of some consolation that he was adored by so many of us. Our thoughts are with all of you "over on the ringers' side."
Sam and Andy Bowles
January 23, 2008
It is with great sadness that we make this entry; our sincere condolences to Buffy and all of John's family and friends. John's music has been a huge part of our lives since the early 1970's. We joyfully attended every performance that we could; Phoenix Concert, Bloodlines Reunion in Chama NM and many, many concerts at Anderson's 5th Estate. We were looking forward to the concert this coming Sunday and now that joy has turned to sadness. John's music and wit will always hold a special place in our hearts and soul. Thank you for being a part of our lives.
Chama, NM August 1997
January 23, 2008
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
January 23, 2008
Thank you for the music, rest in peace.
MAXINE& DONNA HAMMOND
January 23, 2008
MY DAUGHTER HAS ALL THE MUSIC OF THE MONKEES, AND DAY DREAM BELIEVER WAS HER FAVORITE AND SHE HAS ALL THEIR ALBUMS AND ON ONE THERE IS A PICTURE OF JOHN STEWART. HE WAS A GREAT SONGWRITER,SOMETHING WE NEED NOW MORE THEN EVER, WITH ALL THIS LOUD STUFF THEY CALL SINGING, AND WORDS THAT MAKE NO SENSE. HE WILL BE MISSED. TO ALL HE LEFT BEHIND, SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.
MaryAlice Minard
January 23, 2008
1-22-08
To Buffy and all others in John's circle of loved ones: family, friends, fans--
John and his music were indeed gifts to the world. It isn't easy "not to look back" and say farewell to him. While we feel so fortunate to have known him, and his music will live forever, we are sad. I wish you all peace and strength as you grieve. May it be of some comfort for you to know that many mourn with you.
I was still a high schooler in Arizona, when my best friend and I first took notice of "California Bloodlines". We attended many of John's Phoenix concerts and had the honor of saying a friendly hello one time after a show. John's music was so interwoven into my life through the decades, and to this day, even if some time lapses between playing any of his music, tunes whisper in my ear in the most unexpected, but welcomed, moments. I imagine it will be this way for the rest of my days.
Dear John, we will continue to find healing in your song. Thank you, gentle soul.
May peace be yours.
Allen Schulkens
January 23, 2008
Thank you for all the wonderful music you have given us. Great Musicians and Great Music last forever.
January 22, 2008
Thanks for the memories. Those were some good times. Music is so important to help us keep our memories. God bless to your family. You will be greatly missed.
CHASE FAMILY
January 22, 2008
THANKS FOR ALL THE SONGS. YOU WILL BE MISSED. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY. GOD BLESS.
Debbie Southwick
January 22, 2008
Thank you John for the your songs.My heart goes out to his family and friends...
Cheryl & Bill Shean
January 22, 2008
To John's Family,
We are so saddened to hear the loss of this man, his words, his voice, his music, his sensitivity. We followed the Kingston trio for years and on our first date, we heard John singing with the trio at the Coconut Grove in LA. He's our age, so we feel we grew old with him and his music.
S. Dahl
January 22, 2008
Very very sorry to hear about John.
Jane Nee
January 22, 2008
Thank you, John, for sharing your music with the world. My deepest sympathy to his family. He appeared many times at The Cafe Carpe in Fort Atkinson. Forever imprinted in my memory is "Dreamers on the Rise". Chilly winds do blow here, but he made life wonderful.
RON YANCEY
January 22, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Thanks for sharing John with all of us.He was a great guy and we'll dearly miss him....Ron
John Dewhurst
January 22, 2008
The impact John Stewart had on my life was enormous. It was because of The original Kingston Trio that I became a musician, but it was because of John Stewart that I became a songwriter. This news took the wind out of my sails. I am deeply saddened, yet I will always smile when I hear his recordings. May God bless you all.
Chuck & Jerri Copenhaver
January 22, 2008
We were lucky enough to be at the Phoenix Concert when it was recorded, and enjoyed several concerts at Andersons Fifth Estate. To say that John will be missed is an understatement. You are in a better place John. Say Hi to T.J. for us.
Dave Bailey
January 22, 2008
As I sit hear listening to "Spirit" I continue to realize the influence and meaning John and his music have had in my life. Condolences to John's family. How lucky we are to have this wealth of music to hold forever.
Dan Breazeale
January 22, 2008
Lost him in the sun, I guess. He will be missed in our home, though he will remain part of the sound track our lives.
Ray Mederski
January 22, 2008
I'm a 65 year old, and have been a fan of the KT since my teen years. As a matter of fact my son gave me the KT jacket on Jan 18, 2008 for my BD. Great music, great entertainment and wonderful audience communication.
So to the Stewert family, please accept my condolences. I'm just an old fan from Buffalo New York. Yet as a 65 year old, I have experienced loss of friends and family.
Let the Stewart light shine, let the Stewart music and songs shine, and let "our little light shine."
With sincere sympathy
Ray Mederski
Cheektowaga New York 14227
glenn masters
January 22, 2008
I learned how to drive a car during the time "DAY DREAM BELIEVER" was at it's highest popularity. I will always remember it. John you made your legacy-it will live on every time this song is played .
Sherrie Aitken
January 22, 2008
The Golden Bear, Huntington Beach, Ca. was one of the best nights of my life. Thank you John, you were truly the greatest Old Campaigner, you will be so missed by many.
Tom Pillion
January 22, 2008
John was a great addition to the Kingston Trio, and I have many fond high school memories when I listen to the songs from his KT era, especially the live College Concert album with Chilly Winds. Got to see the KT in 1964 and John gave me his autograph. Still have it. May he rest in peace, as an earlier contributer said, where those "chilly winds don't blow."
Jackie Clark
January 22, 2008
To the Stewart Family:
I grew up in the 60's & 70's and I remember John's music. He was a great songwriter and musician. God does promise that one day you will see John again. There will be a new Heaven & Earth, and Jesus will reunite us with our love ones.(2Peter 3:13, John 5:28,29)
john wharton
January 22, 2008
So sorry for your loss. He was one of my heros. Peace
HB TOWNSEND
January 22, 2008
THE LIGHTS WILL NEVER GO OUT IN THIS MANS TOWN, THANK YOU FOR INSPIRING ME DURING MY LIFE TIME. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS TO ALL WHO MATTERED TO YOU.
Susan H
January 22, 2008
While you are mourning the loss of a loved one, others are rejoicing to meet them behind the veil.
Robin Sly
January 22, 2008
It was March, 1974 in Phoenix. I was lucky enough to be sitting in Symphony Hall and a part of the Phoenix Concerts-Live. More than a singer-songwriter, John Stewart was America's poet laureate. A troubadour whose dance in life was like no other, John touched countless numbers of people with his exquisite strumming. This Arizona fan never missed an opportunity to see him. Our world will forever be grateful for this gentle soul whose musical messages of life will live on.
Deepest sympathy to you and your family.
fred cinko
January 22, 2008
very sad god bless u all fred cinko f_ram_yahoo.com
Jerry LaBrecque
January 22, 2008
To Buffy and Family: My deepest condolences on John's passing. He was an exceptional song writer and singer and I have enjoyed listening to his music for many years. He will be sadly missed,but, I have no doubt his music will live on for generations to come.
Jamie Seats
January 22, 2008
RIP. To John's family you have my deepest sympathy
bess murphy
January 22, 2008
To John Stewart Family:
Please accept my deepest sympathies. May you gain help from the God who supplies endurance and comfort during your time of grief.(Romans 15:5)
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